Bovey Tracey launched its Granite Elements Parishscape project on Tuesday 1^st March at the splendid Colehayes Field Studies Centre.
The project aims to bring together artists, historians and the local community to celebrate Dartmoor’s granite heritage by shining a light on the old granite tramway which ran from Haytor Quarry all the way down to Stover Canal. Despite being built in 1820 it is still visible in many places and the project will get people walking along parts of it, there will be clean up tasks and there will be an exhibition of artists' work to be held at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen.
The highlight of the afternoon was a talk by Dr. Tom Greeves, Dartmoor historian and author who gave an inspirational talk which looked at how granite had not only shaped the landscape physically but was used in all manner of structures built by man over thousands of years across the moor. Over the course of the talk he sowed plenty of ideas for further study!
After the talk there was a real buzz from those attending as they discussed ideas with each other fuelled by plenty of home cooked scones and cake.
Local artist Bridget Arnold and Viv Styles from Bovey Tracey Heritage Trust are leading the project and are keen to hear from people who would like to get more involved. To find out more visit their blog http://graniteelements.blogspot.co.uk/